Complete resection of a huge hypervascular inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor in right hemithorax after embolization

Abstract

Background: Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT) is a rare and mostly benign tumor that has the possibility of malignant change.

Methods: Radiological findings revealed a huge mass that filled most of the right hemithorax of a 17-month old female infant. Tumor extirpation was stopped due to massive bleeding and limited exposure of the tumor. Embolization was conducted to obstruct the arteries feeding the mass. Complete resection was performed.

Results: Histopathologic examination led to the diagnosis of IMT. Postoperative recovery was uneventful.

Conclusions: Hypervascularity of IMT should be considered. Preoperative embolization can be effective to reduce intraoperative blood loss and facilitate the surgical procedure.